GERRARD FOR INAUGURAL STAR SIXES TOURNAMENT

Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard is set to lead a team of England players in the inaugural six-a-side tournament.


The event is slated for the London O2 Arena where former international stars will line up.

Twelve teams would compete for the top prize as former stars roll back the years and entertain fans. The teams would be playing for national pride but there would be a goal of silverware.

“This football will be totally different. This is inside, the pitch is smaller and the fans will see more dribbling, more skills. I’m very happy to be a part of Star Sixes. I’m a competitor and although I’m retired, when you play football the most important thing is to win!” France skipper Robert Pires said.

The invited nations will play a 20-minute game in three groups of four teams each. The top two from each group would then qualify for the last eight with two best third placed teams joining. The four quarterfinal games are set for Saturday while the semi-finals would be played on Sunday. The third place and final game would hold on Sunday as well.

Brazil would be led by former Real Madrid star Roberto Carlos. The team includes players like Gilberto Silva, Rivaldo, JulioBaptista etc. Michael Ballack would lead the German contingent which includes players like Marco Reich, DietmarHamman, TimoHilderbrand et al.

Alessandro Del Piero would lead the Italian side while former Bolton star Jay JayOkocha would lead the Nigeria team. Former Barca star Deco would skipper Portugal which has Maniche, Jose Bosingwa, Paulo Ferreira, HelderPostiga at others.

China, Denmark and Mexico would also be appearing at the tournament.